GAA Respect Initiative

Strategic Aim:“We will introduce a detailed initiative to
promote respect and discipline towards match officials and each other.”

The GAA Respect Initiative aims to promote positive behaviour and to
ensure that an enriching environment is provided for the promotion and
development of Gaelic Games. This includes respect for and from all
participants on and around the field. The initiative is currently being piloted
in four counties (Armagh, Waterford,Kilkenny and Sligo) at all levels up to
U-12 with national roll out at this level planned in 2010.

Players
and coaches line up behind their manager before and after the game to
shake hands with the referee, opposing players and coaches

Referees
communicate decisions to players in an effective manner

A
merit award - based on sporting endeavour and fair play - is awarded to
players/teams at the end of each season/blitz

Supporters
remain in designated areas at the side of the pitch for the full duration
of each game.

Each
unit must strive to achieve maximum participation for all players

Referees
to be welcomed to the GAA Club.

A Checklist for Behaviour

Responsible

Encouraging

Supportive

Positive

Enabling

Considerate

Tolerant

Managing Players

The referee will work with the captain and coaches to manage the game
effectively. Referees will control the game by applying the rules of the game
and by dealing with any instances of dissent firmly. In the event of a player
using foul language or behaving in an unsporting manner it is recommended that:

A
free is awarded to the opposition and the player is informed that he will
be asked to leave the game in the event of repeat behaviour.

In
the event of repeated abusive language or unsporting behaviour, the
referee instructs the coach to replace the offending player and the game
is re-commenced after this.

Managing the Sideline

In
the event of a person – other than a player - using foul language or
behaving in an unsporting manner it is recommended that:

The
matter is brought to the attention of the designated team representative

The
representative reminds the person concerned of his/her responsibilities

Where
the behaviour continues, the game may be terminated

A full
report is provided by the referee to the committee with responsibility for
the fixture.